Guard dies after being struck near NCIS set

A security guard died from his injuries after being struck by a van near the set of a television show in Santa Clarita.

February 9, 2011 12:00:00 AM PST

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. --

A security guard died from his injuries after being struck by a van near the set of a television show in Santa Clarita.

The incident occurred at 24800 Avenue Rockefeller next to the set of a shoot for the television show "NCIS."

Ralph Blunt, 60, was driving a 2006 Ford passenger van dropping off passengers on the set was departing the area when he had an unspecified medical emergency and lost consciousness. The driver lost control of the van and crashed, striking a security guard, according to the L.A. County Sheriff's Dept.

The security guard, 52-year-old Reseda resident Julio Garcia, was transported to Henry Mayo Memorial Hospital, where he died from his injuries.

The driver was also transported to Henry Mayo. His condition was not released.

Production of the show was suspended. The show's cast and crew released a statement that said: "With profound sympathy we mourn the tragic passing of our co-worker and friend. NCIS is a family and, as with any family, we are deeply saddened by this unexpected loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his loved ones."

The collision was under investigation by the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Station's Traffic Department.